• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez issued a clarification on the reclassification of Victorias as a 4th class city, pointing out that the data used by the Department of Finance, under RA 11964, was based on the submitted Statement of Receipts and Expenditures (SRE) for the years 2020 to 2022.
It is important to note that this period only includes six months of his administration, stressed Benitez, who assumed office as mayor of Victorias City on June 30 last year, said.
Given its size in terms of area and population, Benitez said Victorias receives a relatively small National Tax Allotment (NTA) share, similar to La Carlota City.
The NTA share is a significant factor in income reclassification, as it contributes to the increase in income classification for other cities, even without substantial growth in their locally sourced revenues.
“While the implementing circular does not explicitly state that the income reclassification period should cover 2020 to 2022, the rationale stems from Republic Act No. 11964 taking effect in 2023.”
“Section 4 of the law specifies that the basis for income classification is the last three fiscal years preceding the year of reclassification, which, in this case, covers 2020-2022,” he pointed out.
In 2021, Victorias City recorded an income of P684,520,72180, which rose to P908,800,139.77 in 2022, and P817,987,174.15 in 2023, while the average annual regular income was reported at P803,769,345.24.
According to the computations from their City Treasurer, Benitez said in a statement that Victorias City falls short of the 3rd class threshold by around P50 million.
“This demonstrates the progress we’ve made under our administration and highlights the trajectory of growth we are striving to maintain.”
Stressing that his administration only started in 2022, Benitez said the data shows a significant jump in that year. He largely attributed it to the implementation of the Mandanas ruling and the gradual recovery of the economy after the pandemic.
He further said that he is incredibly proud that Victorias City was recognized by the Department of Trade and Industry as the Most Improved City in Western Visayas in 2023.
This recognition is proof that we are on the right track, Benitez said.
While this reclassification may reflect past performance, I am confident in the direction we are heading and the progress we have made since taking office, the mayor said.
“This isn’t just about numbers—it’s about building a stronger, more resilient city, Benitez stressed.*
